East Hicks Canyon Retarding Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

East Hicks Canyon Retarding Basin, located in Irvine, California, serves as a vital debris control and flood risk reduction structure along the Hicks Can Wash.


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Summary

Constructed in 1997, this earth dam stands at a height of 49 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 75 acre-feet spread over a surface area of 6 acres. The basin has a low hazard potential and is currently in satisfactory condition, as assessed in September 2017.

Managed by the local government, the East Hicks Canyon Retarding Basin is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR), specifically in terms of safety of dams. The structure is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its continued functionality in mitigating flood risks and controlling debris flow. In case of emergencies, the basin's emergency action plan and contact information are essential components for swift response and risk management.

With its strategic location and design, the East Hicks Canyon Retarding Basin plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding and debris hazards. As a key part of the California water resource infrastructure, this structure stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction measures and proactive management strategies in the face of changing climate patterns and environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1997

Dam Length

1168

Dam Height

49

River Or Stream

Hicks Can Wash

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

39.5

Drainage Area

0.54

Nid Storage

75

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

49
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.